Laser scanning and photogrammetry are a modern way of creating documentation for the needs of contemporary archaeology. Digital models resulting from 3D scanning record the exact dimensions and shapes of objects, complemented by a photorealistic textured surface. Therefore, they can also be used for illustrative results - visualization, fly-by animation, interactive museum exposition etc.… The presentation of models in a virtual and augmented reality offers an attractive and educational form. We always choose the optimal methods regarding the size of the archaeological site or find in addition to the required accuracy.
Creating a digital 3D model of an archaeological artifact or museum exhibit can be indispensable for its later reconstruction, printing replicas on a 3D printer, or for an online virtual tour. All measurement methods used are completely non-invasive, so the object is not exposed to the risk of physical damage. The object for digitization can also be miniaturized in size – when requiring extremely detailed accuracy, the measurement is carried out using a precise triangulation scanner.
Large objects, such as buildings and premises, can be captured using 3D laser scanning. The result is a complex model, recording both the interior and exterior. According to the requirements, we will process a detailed mesh model with photorealistic texturing, 2D drawings for structural and historical survey, orthophoto plans of facades or 3D modeling for BIM - Building Information Modeling. This introduces a new standard for managing an object and monitoring its state over time.
Digital surface models are used mainly in the documentation of excavation work. Due to the speed of laser scanning and photogrammetric capturing, detailed survey can be carried out several times in a row. The measurement can therefore also be used for archaeological systematic research – a 3D model is created for each step of the field uncovering. The measured data can also be used in GIS applications, for example in analyses of historical development of the territory.